July 24th 2024.
Many people in the gaming industry are raising concerns about the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in their work. Activision, one of the biggest game publishers, has been accused of implementing AI-generated content in their popular game, Call of Duty.
The ethical implications of using AI in the entertainment industry have been a hot topic in recent years, and it seems that these concerns are only growing within the gaming world. While there has been a lot of discussion about the lack of protection for video game voice actors, a new report has shed light on how many game studios are turning to AI tools instead of hiring more developers.
The gaming industry has already seen a wave of layoffs in recent years, partly due to the rising costs of game development and the impact of the pandemic. However, it is now being claimed that some studios, like Activision Blizzard, are using AI as a way to cut costs while downsizing their workforce.
According to a report by Wired, many developers have expressed how AI is squeezing the industry, particularly impacting artists and graphic designers. One anonymous developer, who goes by the name Noah, revealed that after layoffs at Activision in January, remaining concept artists were forced to use AI to assist in their work.
In the aftermath of the layoffs, Noah claims that Activision began outsourcing their art assets to third-party companies, with some of these external studios using AI-generated art. The use of AI at Activision reportedly dates back to last year, when an AI-generated cosmetic was made available for purchase in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3.
The report also highlights the use of AI at other game companies, such as Riot Games and EA. It describes a culture of fear among developers who are afraid to speak out against the use of AI tools, with one developer, using the name Violet, stating that different parts of the industry are being taken over by AI.
While Activision Blizzard has yet to comment on the story, Riot Games has stated that they are exploring the use of AI tools that align with their values and will be transparent with players about their intentions.
Despite the concerns raised by the developers in the report, they hope that this issue will bring attention to the need for unions in the gaming industry. The Screen Actors Guild, a union that represents actors and writers in Hollywood, recently granted permission for a strike against game studios and publishers if AI content is used in voice acting.
In July 2024, SAG-AFTRA announced that they had given their chief negotiator the power to declare an immediate strike if necessary terms were not reached regarding AI protections for video game performers. This comes after the union's agreement with AI voice technology company Replica Studios earlier this year, which was met with criticism.
While AI is not the sole reason for layoffs in the gaming industry, it has been described as a way to cut corners and increase productivity. If left unchecked, it could have a significant impact on the way games look and feel in the future. We have already seen examples of games using generative AI, such as The Finals, which incorporates AI text-to-speech tools in its voiceovers.
If you have any thoughts or concerns about the use of AI in the gaming industry, you can email us, leave a comment, follow us on Twitter, and sign up for our newsletter. To make it easier to submit letters and articles, we also have a Submit Stuff page on our website.
In conclusion, the use of AI in the gaming industry has caused a lot of controversy and concern among developers. While it may have its benefits, it is important to address the ethical implications and ensure that workers are not being replaced by AI technology. As the industry continues to evolve, it is crucial to have open discussions and consider the impact of AI on the future of gaming.
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